The Government’s Defence Policy Framework (2000) set the scene for Shaping and Rebuilding the NZDF capabilities. There are seven enduring principles that the Government uses to guide this process - they are that the NZDF be:
Equipped and trained for combat and peacekeeping. In order to perform the key tasks required by the Government, the NZDF must be appropriately equipped and trained for both combat and peacekeeping.
- Deployable. To be able to deploy and sustain our forces, particularly over long distances, a flexible and adaptable mix of air and sealift capabilities are required.
- Able to operate alongside other forces. Exercising bilaterally with Australia and multilaterally through the FPDA and others builds up the NZDF’s interoperability.
- Held at appropriate levels of readiness. The NZDF must be equipped and trained at appropriate levels of readiness.
- Sustainable. Contributions to deployments may be for long periods and involve rotations of personnel and equipment. NZDF resources must be managed to ensure that commitments can be sustained.
- Up to date in technology and doctrine. It is essential that the NZDF keep abreast of military technology and other changes in military operations - the so called Revolution in Military Affairs (RMA) - but having due regard for the high costs involved, in order to retain operational effectiveness and interoperability with our friends and allies. A progressive approach to the introduction of new technology will help to smooth out the costs, and consideration may also need to be given to retaining a lesser range of capabilities.
- Fiscally sustainable. The Government wants to ensure that our defence dollars are spent wisely. The focus in rebuilding the NZDF will be in the areas of most urgent need.
The Government’s Defence Policy Framework also sets the scene in terms of the Priorities for Rebuilding the NZDF. It notes that sensible prioritisation of projects against available resources is essential and that priority will be given to the acquisition and maintenance of essential equipment. The core requirement is for well-equipped, combat-trained land forces which are also able to act as effective peacekeepers, supported by the Navy and Air Force. The greatest needs, as listed in the Policy Framework, are to:
- upgrade the Army’s mobility, communications, surveillance, and fire support capabilities;
- provide effective air and naval transport capabilities; and
- maintain effective maritime surveillance capabilities of the Air Force and Navy, within the New Zealand EEZ and the EEZs of Pacific Island States.
The primary planning tool to enable decisions on defence acquisitions to be taken in the context of the Government’s defence policy is the Defence Long Term Development Plan (LTDP), part of the Capability Management Framework. The LTDP has a rolling forward focus of 10 years and contains a comprehensive list of major capability/major capital projects, with preliminary costings, timings and priorities.
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